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DSCF1199 (3)Let’s be honest. Being stranded and stuck on the side of the road sucks on so many levels. With most of America hitting the roads for the holidays, being stranded on the side of the road can be a nightmare. With children in the car multiply that by 1000. Thankfully most modern cars have some type of emergency assistance program where you touch a button, speak to a live person, and help is on the way. Others have AAA which is relatively the same but unless you have the top tier package it is more or less a free tow for 50 miles.

What if you don't have roadside assistance or you're too far for them to respond? What do you do? Well it's happened to me before and possibly some of you too. Luckily, credit to my father a long time car enthusiast and long distance road warrior. I know how to minimize the situation till help arrives. So for those who weren't lucky enough to have such teachings I will share a little bought wit.

Never Panic.

Fear is the enemy. You have to compose yourself and not let the situation get to you. Keeping your cool will help you be more successful in making clear precise decisions. Having a child traveling with you makes it a priority. How do you expect to keep the kiddies calm if you’re freaking out? If the children are getting nervous console them and play little visual games with them.

motoring-graphics-2_837548aLearn to not depend on your GPS

Portable GPS units and integrated navigational systems have taken over as the primer way to navigate a road trip. Displaying all the information you need to make even the longest journey into a pleasurable cruise. I have one. It's great. But as my father would say "Don't keep your eggs all in one basket." Learn how to read a map. Interpreting maps and reading mile markers is a dying art. Before planning a trip go ahead and grab an interstate map. In the World Rally Circuit or WRC the navigator would have a map or some type of directional aid to assist the driver on the terrain. Being the courses are very challenging. The driver has to know what to expect to successfully complete the course. Yes some have GPS based units in the vehicles. However do not think for a moment that maps or written diagrams aren't utilized when their electronic devices take a crap. Also observe the mile markers and know their meaning. Mile markers initially help you calculate the distance from one end of the highway to the other in a specific state. In some States, exit number signs correlate to the mile markers in dictating distance.

Observe Your Surroundings

Scan the perimeter of the car. Take note of mile markers, billboards, landmarks, even places you passed before breaking down. This is not only necessary to inform rescue of your location, it also makes you aware of your environment. Safety is the priority.

Assess the damage.

I once drove a Saab 9000 Turbo from South Jersey to Upstate New York on a broken radiator spewing gallons of coolant all over the Garden State Parkway. This was after assessing the car wouldn’t get hot unless caught in stop and go traffic. Knowing the cause of the failure usually will help you determine if you can getting back on the road or knowing if you need a tow. Simple things such as a tire puncture or an overheating issue can be dealt with to get you closer to civilization. More extensive damage will usually require a tow.

Stay in or near your car and call for assistance.

You’ve assessed the damage, and took visual notes of where you are. Now get back in the car and call 911. Breaking down on the side of the road makes you vulnerable to a slew of things and instances. If the damage or location of your vehicle doesn’t require your immediate exit, Stay in your car. Put your hazard lights on and if necessary lock your doors. Stay alert and keep the radio to minimum volume. Check in with a family and a close friend so someone knows what's going on. If possible charge your phone if not already charging. If you have a DVD player installed for the kids, put in their favorite movie to keep them occupied. If not affected by the damage use the climate control to keep yourself comfortable. The point is to stay safe in an environment you can control. And if you're low on fuel, only use the car's aforementioned comfort features if absolutely necessary.

Keep cash just in case your break down becomes an extended stay.hotel_neon_sign_263-F11-A

Nowadays people use more plastic than paper dollars. Nothing is more humiliating when you need to stay in a hotel or get something to eat while your car is being repaired and you can’t use your credit card or get to an ATM. Instead of becoming frustrated, keep calm. Always have enough cash on hand to handle the unexpected.

Always be courteous to people willing to help

Almost 2 decades ago a friend and I drove home to New Jersey during college summer break. During the trip, my little 1986 VW GTI incurred a serious brake system failure resulting in a serious accident. Good fortune on our side, a woman and a truck driver who witnessed the wreck ran to our rescue. Thankfully to everyone’s surprise we walked away without a scratch. I made sure I thanked the woman and truck driver for their help. This scenario was an exception but makes the point. Yes you are vulnerable on the side of the road. There are those who will take advantage of such instances. However, try to be courteous to everyone. If your suspicious of someone use your phone to record the looming conversation. Usually a simple “Thank you I’m okay,” or “I’ve called the police they’re on their way” will fend off anyone wishing to do harm. But always show appreciation for those who do senseless acts of kindness.

WINTKIT1Create a Prep Kit

We talked about what to do when faced with a vehicle break down. Now let's talk about creating a prep kit in case it happens. A prep kit is just a few basic things that could be used to do a temp repair or get you by until help arrives. Oil, coolant, first aid kit and a small set of tools are the foundation of the kit. A blanket, a few bottles of water, a USB portable power source, and some flashlights are also great additions to the kit.

Final Thoughts

We as enthusiasts make it our duty to maintain our cars to optimum performance to avoid situations like getting stranded. It’s that old unspoken enthusiast mantra of "not on my watch” that ensures every bolt is fastened, all fluids are topped off, and sunglasses are in arm's reach. This does not mean the possibility of a breakdown is inconceivable. However if and when it does occur be prepared and have a cool head.

Shop BMW Parts at FCP Euro

 


About the author: William Yelder

William is an enthusiast, entrepreneur, and BMWCCA member from Freehold, NJ. Preferring the classic lines over modern convenience, he’s continuously improving the performance of his ’95 BMW 5-Series… One bolt at a time.

 


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Written by :
William Yelder

William is an enthusiast, entrepreneur, BMWCCA member, and admitted adrenaline junky from Freehold, NJ. Preferring the classic lines over modern convenience, he’s continuously improving the performance of his ’95 BMW 5-Series, One bolt at a time.


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